Narendra Modi launches Kochi Metro, takes a train ride

Apart from improving a city’s urban mobility quotient, the metro service is being hailed for a number of initiatives including employment of transgenders and a water ferry service.

June 17, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Kochi Metro on Saturday, dedicating the first phase of the project to the nation.

Ahead of the official inaugural ceremony, Modi travelled in Kerala’s first metro line, from the Southern Naval Command’s air terminal to the Palarivattom station. He was received by Kerala’s chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, governor P Sathasivam and senior BJP leaders including state chief Kummanam Rajasekharan. Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Principal Advisor ‘Metro Man’ E Sreedharan, who oversaw the project implementation, was also present.

Photos – Kochi Metro Rail FB Page

The first 13 km of the first phase runs between Palarivattom and Aluva. Work on the remaining section is expected to take another two years. The train services will be opened to the public from 6 am on Monday morning.

Video – Narendra Modi Official

Apart from improving a city’s urban mobility quotient, the metro service is being hailed for a number of initiatives including employment of transgenders and a water ferry service. It will also be the first in India to have a workforce that comprises 80% women.